Part Two: UL698A NRBX - Understanding Underwriters Laboratory (UL) Certifications Relating to Hazardous Locations
At Palmer DCS, we take great pride in our UL certifications. These certifications aren’t just labels—they represent our commitment to producing high-quality industrial control panels (ICPs) that our customers can rely on. When you see the UL mark, it’s a symbol of trust that assures our customers that they’re receiving products built to meet the highest safety standards. But while many people are familiar with the general UL mark, fewer understand the various specific certifications that come with it, especially when it comes to hazardous locations. Let’s take a closer look at UL698A NRBX, a crucial certification for ICPs in hazardous environments.
What is UL698A NRBX?
UL698A NRBX is a category under the broader UL698A certification. While the previous post covered UL508A (which is the standard for ICPs), UL698A NRBX focuses specifically on panels designed for hazardous locations. However, this certification is not as stringent as the NNNY category (which we'll explore in the future). The key takeaway is that UL698A NRBX applies to ICPs designed to operate in safe locations, but whose circuits may extend into hazardous areas. These panels don’t require an explosion-proof, dust-proof, or pressurized enclosure, but they must feature intrinsically safe control circuits. This allows the installation of devices such as switch contacts in hazardous areas without the need for a heavy-duty protective casing.
What Defines a Hazardous Environment?
The National Electric Code (NEC), NFPA 70, lays out the standards for defining hazardous locations. Under the UL file for UL698A NRBX, Palmer DCS holds certification for ICPs that can be used in the following hazardous environments:
- Class I: Areas where flammable gases, vapors, or liquids may be present.
- Class II: Areas where combustible dust is found.
- Class III: Areas where ignitable fibers are present.
Each of these classes is further broken down into groups that identify the specific substances involved:
- Group A (Class I): Acetylene
- Group B (Class I): Hydrogen
- Group C (Class I): Cyclopropane, ether
- Group D (Class I): Acetone, butane, propane, natural gas
- Group E (Class II): Combustible metals (e.g., lithium, magnesium)
- Group F (Class II): Carbonaceous materials like coal dust
- Group G (Class II): Flour, starch, plastic
The Importance of Divisions in Hazardous Locations
The NEC also further defines hazardous locations by dividing them into three divisions:
Division 1: Locations where flammable or combustible materials are present under normal conditions, or are highly likely to exist.
Division 2: Locations where such materials may only exist under abnormal conditions, or are not likely to be present under normal conditions.
Nonclassified/Unclassified: Areas where the presence of hazardous materials is so rare that electrical classification is not deemed necessary.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial for ensuring that the correct equipment is used in the right environment. These categories help ensure safety, performance, and reliability in potentially dangerous settings.
Why UL698A NRBX Matters
UL698A NRBX certification is essential for panels used in industrial control systems that must operate in or around hazardous environments. It provides a level of safety and assurance that these systems will perform properly without posing a risk to people or property. While it doesn’t require the more robust enclosures required by other certifications, the use of intrinsically safe circuits is crucial for mitigating risks such as explosions, fires, or toxic exposure in these environments.
At Palmer DCS, we ensure that all our UL698A NRBX-certified products are rigorously tested and built to meet the demanding safety and performance standards outlined by UL. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our ongoing routine inspections, which help maintain our certification and give our customers confidence in the safety and reliability of our products.
Why Choose Palmer DCS for UL698A NRBX Certified Panels?
When you choose Palmer DCS, you’re partnering with a company that is committed to producing ICPs built to last. Our UL698A NRBX certification ensures that our products meet the safety and performance standards necessary for operating in hazardous environments. This certification not only protects your workforce but also reduces the potential for costly rejections or compliance issues.
By choosing a UL698A NRBX-certified panel from Palmer DCS, you’re ensuring that you won’t face delays or stress due to non-compliance. It’s just one of the many reasons our customers trust us to get the job done right, on time, and to spec.
Get in Touch with Palmer DCS
Have questions about our UL698A NRBX certification or our industrial control panels? Our team is always here to help. Reach out today to learn more about our certified products or to request a quote.
The Value of UL698A NRBX Certification
Understanding and choosing the right certifications for your industrial control panels is key to maintaining safety and performance in hazardous locations. At Palmer DCS, we are proud to offer UL698A NRBX-certified panels, giving our customers peace of mind knowing that their equipment meets the highest safety standards. Trust Palmer DCS to provide the quality and reliability your project deserves.